FFT officials call Aviation Day a huge success

FRANKFORT, Ky. – On Saturday, Sept. 21, Capital City Airport (FFT) welcomed the public to its annual Aviation Day. A variety of local aviation groups and organizations were present at this family-oriented event, which attracted hundreds of interested attendees.

The Institute for Aerospace Education had all hands on deck helping with operations, according to officials. Junior Herrera, a senior in the engineering pathway, was in charge of concessions for the event. He, with the help of Jim Cline, served up hamburgers and hotdogs all morning long. Senior flight student Tori Williams was available to answer questions and give information at the IAE booth, sharing with interested families her aviation accomplishments with IAE this past year.

The newest addition to Aviation Day was the Institute for Aerospace Education’s Flight Experience. This activity was lead by flight instructor Mike Wagers with help from students Jason Smith and Samantha Tinnell.

A ground lesson was taught by the senior students, explaining to the public basic principles of flight and aeronautics. More than six sessions were given by the two seniors. Once the ground work had been completed, guests moved on to their own simulator station and put their knowledge to the test. Students helping with simulator operations reported that 75-100 guests tried their hand at piloting the virtual aircraft.

Many static displays were available for guest to look at and explore. The Institute’s twin Comanche was out, alongside a Piper Navajo, King Air 200, and Blackhawk, to name a few. Children and adults alike enjoyed getting a glimpse at the great variety of flying machines. On the west side of the ramp, children lined up to take their first Young Eagles flight. Booths were present representing The National Guard, Eastern Kentucky University’s aviation program, and The Aviation Museum of Kentucky, amongst others.

Despite a rainy morning, the skies cleared up around noon and it was a beautiful day, organizers report.